Alien³ (NES) Playthrough
2Playthrough of Alien³, LJN's 1993 side-scrolling actin-platformer for the NES.
Alien³ for the Nintendo Entertainment System is a side-scrolling action platformer based on the 1992 film of the same name. Unlike the bleak, confined tone of the movie, the game emphasizes fast-paced gameplay and expansive, maze-like levels. Players assume the role of Ellen Ripley, navigating the prison colony Fiorina 161 while fending off waves of xenomorphs. The primary goal in each stage is to rescue a set number of prisoners before time runs out, adding a layer of urgency and replayability.
The controls are tight and responsive, with Ripley able to jump, climb ladders, and fire a variety of weapons including flamethrowers, pulse rifles, and grenade launchers. Combat is central to the experience, with enemies spawning frequently and requiring quick reactions. The weapons feel distinct, offering strategic choices depending on the type and placement of alien threats. Enemy design is aggressive, with xenomorphs capable of appearing from ceilings, vents, and ground level, often catching players off guard.
Visually, Alien³ pushes the NES hardware with detailed sprite work and a dark, oppressive color palette that suits the sci-fi horror theme. The level design supports exploration with multiple paths, secret areas, and a layout that demands memorization and map awareness. This exploration is enhanced by a password system, allowing players to return to specific stages without starting from scratch.
The soundtrack, composed by Jeroen Tel, is a standout element. It delivers tense, rhythmic tracks that match the high-stakes action. While the game doesn’t closely follow the plot of the film, it captures the spirit of survival against overwhelming odds, offering one of the more atmospheric and challenging licensed titles on the NES. Alien³ may not be faithful to its cinematic source in terms of story, but it provides a compelling and well-crafted gameplay experience in its own right.